Excellent. I was most intrigued since in context it hinted at an independent project to turn 40,000 Leagues under the Sea into an animated movie. Best thing to do since my curiosity was kindled, was to contact the gentleman who posted it and ask permission to feature it.

What I found out was even better than I had hoped for: The image hails from a 1990’s project by Kevin Altiery and Joe Pearson, the latter also being responsible for War of the World: Goliath. So there is some serious talent behind this 40,000 Leagues project.

Hopefully, I will be able to keep in touch with Mr. Pearson and pass some updates along as to what the status of the project is. So far, it looks like it is being brought back into the light after lying dormant for far too long, but this is all I know at the moment. Let’s see what the future brings.

I was quite intrigued by this rather harrowing trailer. Mad scientist, evil industrialist and damsel in distress, a set-up for one heroic story. A visit to the project’s website brought sad news:

The Marionett Unit is, at least for now, on hold.The last update was in February 2011 and it announced the hiatus. But who knows. Maybe the project will start up again one day. I for my part will keep an eye out and visit the film’s site every now and again.

Remember Claudia Christian a.k.a. Commander Ivanova of Babylon 5? She is now involved in a Steampunk project. Yes, you got that right. Another Sci-Fi icon has picked up the Steampunk banner.

The project in question is Æther Dancer, an independent production by a crew based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. But there is one catch: Since it is an independent project, they need to raise the funds themselves and this is where we, the community, come in.

They have put up their project on IndieGoGo and have 70 days left for the funding.

OK people, my friend Myke Amend and a few others have gotten together and started a massive art project:

So, let us all band together and support the construction of this fabulous machine! Not only is it steampunk, it also runs on alternative energy sources! And you’ve got three ways of supporting: You can donate parts, money or both.

Alright, here is another project and cause to rally to!
A Steampunk movie is in the early stages of planing but it needs our help. So, everybody, spread the word and if you are willing and able, donate!

And now, let the mastermind behind Londinium tell you his story:

I will keep you informed about the progress of this project and I am also pledging my financial support. We can all really make a difference here and show what the Steampunk community can do!

Already quite a while back, I mentioned a Steampunk fashion show in New Zealand. Now, there’s more Steampunk coming to us from down under. This time, I want to point your inquisitive eyes and ears towards Alex the Kid, a really fresh and new Steampunk band with a sound I find quite appealing.

To wet your appetite, a digital single from Alex The Kid, Future, plus a bonus track. Listen to Future:

Very cool, dancable future pop. Quite the stuff I like. Their abode on the ætherweb also features some fitting Steampunk imagery, atmosphere and a few amnities to play with and enjoy. Find out for yourselves, do not listen to me.
And talking of listening, here’s a special message from Alex the Kid, you may wish to take into cosideration:

So, contribute to our subculture, leave your mark! And think of all the goodies!

And a final note:

I love bands with stage-personalities and fictional hstories:

„Alex the Kid are from the future,“ says Dave Thomson, tongue in cheek. „We have quantum leaped to this time to promote human and robot unity on earth.“

Obviously, those projects need a lot of love, work and funding, Peter has set up an account at Kickstarter, to gather funds. So, if you can find it in your heart, or whatever you have, to suppot Peter’s worthy project, visit his Kickstarter Account and contribute. I will certainly do so.

Should this project fail, it would be a real shame… So I hope I can do my part and am looking foreward to publishing a few images of the Steampunk Drill in all its glory!

And a special note to Dahlia Jane: I guess this is something you can blog about, too. After all, it is a Halloween project you tell your grandchildren about!